Crispy Baked Pumpkin Fries (Butternut Squash)
Say goodbye to boring old fries. My crispy baked pumpkin fries, made with butternut pumpkin, are sweet, salty, smoky, and seriously addictive. They are a healthy vegan snack that never fails to put a smile on my face, whether I pile them up as a side dish or snack on them straight from the tray. Once you try these easy vegan fries, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them and you’ll want to add them to your rotation of easy vegan recipes.
Wholesome Nutrition Benefits for a Vegan and Gluten-Free Lifestyle
Butternut pumpkin is a fantastic source of fibre, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making these crispy fries a nourishing choice for anyone following a vegan or gluten-free diet. Paired with spices like paprika and garlic powder, they not only bring warmth and depth of flavour but also offer anti-inflammatory benefits, all while staying naturally low in fat and rich in plant-based goodness.
If you’re always on the lookout for easy vegan recipes that are both wholesome and delicious, this one’s a winner. With just a few pantry staples and a simple prep process, you’ll have a tray of golden, crispy butternut pumpkin fries ready in no time. Discover how quick and satisfying it is to make these baked pumpkin fries here:
How to Make Crispy Butternut Pumpkin Fries with Ease
Crispy Butternut Pumpkin Fries
Ingredients
Pumpkin Fries
- 1 butternut pumpkin
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 2 pinches salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Chili flakes
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Nutritional yeast
Mint Lime Sauce
- 4 tbsp Greek yoghurt or vegan sour cream
- 2 tbsp mayo
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne powder
- Salt to taste
- Lime to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the butternut squash. Peel the squash, remove the seeds, and slice into chips about ¼ to ⅓ inch thick to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish.
- Make the seasoning. In a bowl, combine 4 tbsp olive oil, 2 pinches of salt, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp onion powder, and chilli flakes. Mix well and coat the squash chips evenly.
- Add the cheesy coating. Mix panko breadcrumbs with nutritional yeast. Dip each chip into the mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well on both sides.
- Bake the fries. Lay the chips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 180°C for 20 minutes, flip, add more cheesy mix if desired, then return to the oven for another 3 minutes.
- Make the dipping sauce. Mix 4 tbsp thick Greek-style vegan yoghurt or sour cream, 1–2 tbsp vegan mayo, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp cayenne, salt to taste, and juice of half a lime. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These crispy baked pumpkin fries are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes and dips. Upgrade your nutritious crispy fries with these fun serving ideas:- As a snack or starter: Serve hot with your favourite dip like vegan aioli, tahini sauce, or mint-lime yoghurt.
- With sandwiches and burgers: Pair alongside veggie or bean burgers for a fun twist on the classic chips.
- In nourish bowls: Add them to a colourful grain or buddha bowls for extra texture and flavour.
- Topped on salads: Use as a crunchy topping for a warm or cold salad.
- With wraps: Enjoy alongside falafel or roasted veg wraps for a wholesome meal.
Upgrade your Fries with Delicious Dips
Give your butternut pumpkin fries a flavourful twist with the perfect dipping sauce. You can choose something creamy, zesty, spicy or sweet to take each bite to the next level and make your snack or side dish even more irresistible.- Maple Aioli: A sweet and savoury blend of vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup, offering a creamy contrast to the fries’ crispiness.
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Rosemary Dip: Combines vegan mayo, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary for a zesty, herbaceous flavour.
- Tamari Tahini Sauce: A savoury mix of tahini and tamari, delivering a nutty, umami-rich flavour.
- Vegan French Onion Dip: A rich, creamy dip made with caramelised onions and vegan sour cream, perfect for a classic touch.
- Chipotle Sauce: A smoky, spicy dip combining chipotle peppers with a creamy base, adding depth to the fries.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven? Air frying at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, yields crispy results. Ensure the fries are in a single layer for even cooking.
- What spices pair well with butternut pumpkin fries? Butternut pumpkin pairs well with spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and chilli flakes. Feel free to experiment with your favourite seasonings to suit your taste.
- How can I ensure the fries are crispy? To achieve crispiness, cut the fries uniformly, avoid overcrowding the baking tray, and consider tossing them in a bit of cornstarch before baking. Using a wire rack on the baking sheet can also help air circulate around the fries.
- Can I make baked pumpkin fries without breadcrumbs? Yes! For a simpler version of these baked pumpkin fries, skip the panko and use just the seasoned oil mixture. You’ll still get lovely roasted edges and sweet caramelised flavour.
- Are butternut pumpkin fries healthier than regular fries? Yes, they are a lower-calorie and nutrient-rich alternative to traditional potato fries, making them a great option for a healthy vegan snack.
The Best Vegan Alternative to Regular Fries
These crispy butternut pumpkin fries completely changed the way I see fries, and I know you’ll love them just as much. They’re bursting with flavour, naturally gluten-free, and make a seriously satisfying plant-based snack. I never thought fries could get better until I tried them with butternut pumpkin.
Butternut Pumpkin Fries and Other Variations
If you loved this crispy butternut pumpkin fries recipe, you will surely enjoy other surprisingly delicious vegan fries recipe.
Looking for more easy vegan recipes to round out your healthy snack list? Try my Pumpkin Spice Truffles or Chickpea Sweet Potato Curry for simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy days.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a plant-based pro, these baked pumpkin fries are a delicious reminder that healthy eating can be both easy and indulgent.
We’re here to help you master vegan cooking like a pro! Your thoughts mean the world to us, please share your feedback in the comments below and let’s create delicious magic together!
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